OTR in Turkey - Day Four- Tire

 After visiting the Ephesus archaeological site, we headed to the town of Tire, at about 40 km distance.

We planned our itinerary in order to be there on Tuesday, when Tire Market (Tire Pazarı) takes place. It is one of the largest and most vibrant open-air markets in Turkey and it's famous for its variety of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

Tire is known for its traditional crafts, particularly felt-making, copperware, and the production of fine embroidery known as “oya”. Moreover it is still possible to find traditional saddles for donkeys. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase handcrafted items that reflect the town’s cultural heritage. The "Felt Art" of Tire is especially renowned and makes for unique souvenirs. The few remaining keçe (felt) makers can be found on the cobbled lane running uphill from the small Leyse Camii (1543).

Tire can be a good place to purchase original and authentic items, not to be found in purely touristic places like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. But the real fun is to get lost in the different alleys, observing the colourful stalls, the sellers and the buyers, possibly testing some street food and experiencing a more relaxed pace.